“Give me an A,” Jahi Robinson says to a classroom full of students. After the students play, he often says how proud he is of them. Most of the students haven’t played an instrument prior to starting high school, but that doesn’t stop them from creating beautiful music together.
Every day at Reginald F. Lewis High School, there’s music coming from Room 302. From instrumental to digital production, music is a big part of the student experience, and Robinson has a lot to do with that. When he started 20 years ago, there was no band. Since then, he’s expanded the music program at the school and created an instrumental band that has won multiple competitions.
“Mr. Robinson has demonstrated sustained commitment and intentionality in building a program that effectively serves the needs of his students and their families,” said Chan'nel Howard, Fine Arts Coordinator.
Students say the program teaches more than just music.
Malik, a 10th grader learning the clarinet, said, “Music in schools is important because it shows teamwork to play with everybody at once. It’s a community, and they actually teach you how to be patient with how to do stuff, especially with your instrument.” When asked what he would tell other students about joining the band, Malik said, “Don’t knock it until you try it. It’s actually fun.”
Jason, who plays the alto saxophone, said music “builds a community. We’re also building a fundamental skill that is not just fun to play, but also a challenge to learn and can really build up your mindset in your work environment.”
Jason started learning in his sophomore year and has since performed the national anthem at school events and participated in numerous concerts.
Jayde, who plays trombone, added, “I think band, it can help you express yourself more. You can meet a lot of new, different people and build a bond while learning music together. It’s something that every school should have because it’s really fun and a way to express yourself. Some people can’t express themselves, [but they can] through music."
For Robinson, teaching music is personal and technical. “Especially with brass players, they have to have the right setting, the right airspeed. It usually takes them a little longer. Sometimes they get frustrated because it doesn’t happen on the first try, and you have to keep working with them. But over time, students grow.”
“[Robinson] establishes high expectations and fosters an environment in which students feel both supported and motivated to meet those standards,” Howard said. “Through the respect he has cultivated, students are encouraged to strive for excellence - not out of fear, but out of pride in their work and a desire to meet the expectations he has set for them and for themselves.”
Robinson also works hard to expand opportunities for the students. In 2025, he received a J Dilla Music Tech Grant, which helped the school expand their audio tech program. The grant allowed students to learn the music production software Soundtrap, opening up fresh ways to learn, produce, and express themselves through music. Video of one student project is featured on Save the Music’s Facebook.
Through Robinson’s leadership and the students’ commitment, the band continues to grow, creating a space where students can find connection, confidence, and a sense of pride in what they accomplish together. The continued growth of programs like Robinson’s reflects City Schools’ commitment to the Fine Arts, ensuring every student has access to meaningful artistic experiences that support both their academic journey and personal development.
Created by City Schools with assistance from AI